If you’re an avid park-goer, you might need to budget a little extra for your next Washington Discover Pass.
Washington lawmakers are pushing to increase the cost of the Discover Pass by 50%.
Currently, visitors to any of Washington’s state parks can pay $10 for a day pass or purchase an annual pass for $30.
Senate Bill 5390 would bump the yearly cost up to $45.
Some lawmakers have voiced concerns about the impact that raising the price could have on Washington families.
“To raise a fee on something that’s so essential for the spiritual well-being of the people in our state, it seems imprudent,” said WA representative, Mary Dye (R).
Representative Jenny Graham (R) of Spokane also opposed the bill, arguing it could make parks less accessible.
“I feel that we’re going to see less families being able to enjoy the beautiful park,” she said.
Supporters of the increase argue that the additional funds are necessary to maintain park facilities and staffing.
“Grumble if you want, but know that it’s going to a good place,” said Caren Hubbard of Riverside State Park Foundation.
She said without the funding for more park rangers and park staff, more bad behavior in the park will go unresolved and trash will pile up.
“If you want to use the park, you need to support it,” Hubbard said.
The bill has passed both the House and the Senate and now awaits Governor Ferguson’s signature. If it is signed into law, the increase would go into effect in October.
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